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Mexican Gray Wolf

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Mexican gray wolf No. 1105 was shot dead by wildlife managers after having a tryst — and puppies — with a common ranch dog. No. 1188, an alpha female, was almost executed, then taken away from her pups and pack, for killing cattle. And wolf No. 1133 was returned to captivity after failing to woo his intended mate.”Idaho-Press Tribune

The number of reintroduced Mexican gray wolves in the wild grew from 58 in 2011 to 75 in 2012, according to a federal population survey released this week.

“One of the keys to successful Mexican wolf repatriation is increasing the percentage of the population that is wild-born, and in 2012 that percentage grew to nearly 100 percent with only one wolf on the ground that was captive-born. Wild-born wolves, compared to naïve wolves that were born in captivity, have demonstrated that they are less likely to have human and livestock interactions,” said Larry Voyles, director of the Arizona Game and Fish Department. via Payson Roundup

“Our strategy for 2013 will be to increase the genetic viability of the wild population, and implement management activities that support more wolves in the wild,” said Voyles. “Releases are one of the important tools we use for improving the genetic viability of the wild population.”

Facts About The Mexican Gray Wolf:

This wolf is commonly referred to as “El Lobo.”

The Mexican wolf is a subspecies of the Gray wolf.Although native to North America, it is one of the rarest and most genetically distinct subspecies.

Physical Features:

Smallest gray wolf subspecies present in North America reaching 3.9-4.9 feet and a maximum height of 31 inches.It is the same height as a German Shepherd.They weigh from around 55 to 90 pounds.The gray wolf is gray with a touch of light brown fur on its back.